Spotlight on Elizabeth Powell

This week the spotlight is on Elizabeth Powell, Resources Assistant, Communications and Marketing (CAM).

What is your role and what does it involve?

I work in UCL’s Communications and Marketing office supporting our five teams: Communications, Media Relations, Events, Publications and Marketing and the International Office as well as our Director.

My role is varied and busy as our teams have a lot of differing needs. I provide support for all aspects of budget management, HR, recruitment and facilities to ensure the smooth running of our office.

I also provide diary management to our director and organise internal and external meetings. My role involves liaising with a lot of different departments throughout UCL while working closely with UCL policy procedures.

How long have you been at UCL and what was your previous role?

I have been working in the Communications and Marketing department since January 2013 when I moved down to London. Previously, I was working for Newcastle University.

What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of?

As the Resources Team is relatively new in CAM, I’d probably say helping to get the team set up and established. To do this, I have had to look at the departmental procedures in place and suggest changes that would benefit the whole of CAM.

I am also proud of the relationships I have developed in our department and throughout UCL. CAM is an extremely lively and interesting place to work. Every day, I learn something new about what our staff do and it’s something I feel proud to be involved with.

What is your favourite album, film and novel?

Album: Anything by Carole King as I’m a bit of an old fashioned Romantic

Film: Labyrinth

Book: Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami

What is your favourite joke (pre-watershed)?

Ron Burgundy: Last time I looked in the dictionary, my name’s Ron Burgundy. What’s your name?

Brian Fantana: Brian Fantana

Champ Kind: Champ Kind

Brick Tamland: Brian Fantana

Brian Fantana: No, you’re Brick

Brick Tamland: Brian

Brian Fantana: I’m Brian

Brick Tamland: Veronica

Who would be your dream dinner guests?

Despite having a major love for food, I’m a terrible cook, so I’d need a good chef. I’d have Homer from The Simpsons, my Dad and Shakespeare.

Pretty much anyone who could bring good fun and good food!

What advice would you give your younger self?

Step away from Klute – it was once proudly voted Europe’s second worst nightclub (until the first burnt down).

What would it surprise people to know about you?

I’m always interested in helping young people to learn and develop.

In 2009, I trained as a primary school teacher so I’ve spent a lot of time covered in paint or in a sand pit. One of my greatest lessons was my attempt to teach a class of 11-year-olds the long jump. No demonstration necessary.